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Public Administration Certificate Online Graduate Courses
Program Overview Why get a public administration graduate certificate?
Learn how to employ responsive, efficient and accountable governance processes and policies in the Public Administration Graduate Certificate online program at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). You'll gain the knowledge and insight needed to view governance issues from a public administrator's perspective. The program coursework will deepen your understanding of key public administration issues and policymaking practices at local, state, national and international levels. You'll examine the complexities of policymaking and learn why some policies are more effective than others.
Skills you'll learn:
- Intergovernmental relations
- Management
- Performance measurement
- Policy
- Strategic planning
- Stakeholder analysis
Courses & Curriculum Online public administration graduate courses that prepare you for your career
Whether you've earned your bachelor's and want to see what public administration is all about or want to supplement your grad degree with new skills, you've come to the right place. This 4-course certificate program was created to help you adapt to changing roles and responsibilities by developing a new skill set – or validating an existing one – in public administration. You'll graduate ready to assess political, social, economic and administrative realities, create a mission statement and organizational goals and objectives, and conduct SWOT analysis and stakeholder analysis for public sector organizations.
Online public administration graduate certificate courses
This graduate certificate coursework will introduce you to a wide range of public administration issues and management strategies, giving you broad exposure to contemporary issues in public administration. A bonus? The courses transfer seamlessly into our MBA in Public Administration program, should you choose to continue your education.
Courses may include:
Foundations of Public Administration
Course ID:
PAD 630
This course is designed to introduce students to the foundations and constraints that form the environment of the public administration. It will encourage and enable the view of governance issues through the eyes of a public administrator. The course is structured to provide basic skills and set the context of contemporary political, social, economic, and administrative realities. It explores responsive, equitable, effective, efficient, and accountable governance processes, public policies, and institutional-based programs. It also examines, from a multidisciplinary perspective, those essential competencies, values, and issues important to public service organizations and the importance of public policy at the local, state, national and international levels.
Strategic Management in Public Service
Course ID:
PAD 631
This course is designed to provide an academic foundation to applied strategic management in public service. Identifying the factors that differentiate public service from the private sector, strategic planning and the implications those differences have for managers. Emphasis is placed on applied strategic planning and management including how to create a mission statement, conduct a SWOT analysis, conduct a stakeholder analysis, writing goals and objectives, and how to design and implement a performance measurement and management system. Current approaches to strategic management used by federal, state, local, and non-profit organizations are emphasized.
Foundations of Public Policy
Course ID:
PAD 632
This course is an introduction to the public policy process. Students will develop an understanding of what "political" and "public policy" mean. Topics discussed include why some problems reach the public agenda, why some solutions are adopted, why others are rejected, why some policies appear to succeed while others appear to fail. The course also examines the complexity of policymaking at the national, state, and local levels.
Intergovernmental Relations
Course ID:
PAD 633
This course is designed to demonstrate the challenges and strategies for governance and administration in an institutional environment of fragmented authority and dispersed power. It defines the balance of shared powers between the layers and institutions of government poses and the considerable challenges to policymakers and administrators. Major dimensions of intergovernmental relations: the vertical dimension of federal, states, and local governments, that cooperate, coordinate, and compete for shares of power, and the horizontal dimension in which sub-governments interact with one another. The course examines the structure of American political institutions, the nature of complex policymaking, governance by networks, and the consequences of competition between governments.
Visit the course catalog to view the full Graduate Certificate in Public Administration curriculum.
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: Aug. 25, 2025 | Nov. 10, 2025
Next term starts:
June 9, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 91.6% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2024 survey with 8,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
Instructors with Real-World Experience
At SNHU, you'll learn from faculty with years of expertise in their field and an unwavering dedication to your success.
Featured Faculty
Karen Versuk
“Public administration is a dynamic discipline and touches everyone in the world. Change is a constant for public administration, service and working for the common good are the other two constants.”
Position
Adjunct Professor
Joined SNHU
2017
Education
- PhD in Public Policy and Administration from Walden University
- MBA in Management from Eastern University
- BA in Political Science and Government from West Chester University of Pennsylvania
Read more about Karen Versuk and other online faculty at SNHU.
What SNHU instructors are saying
Hear from more of our instructors about the public administration certificate courses.
"Having these advanced skills not only makes you more marketable but also enhances advancement opportunities. Global and national issues – including COVID-19 – punctuate the need for trained administrative service managers at all levels in this growing, in-demand field.”
Dr. Michelle Caron, associate dean
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
This certificate is not eligible for federal financial aid. Students seeking alternatives to federal financial aid can explore tuition assistance, grants and scholarships, as well as private loans. To learn more about private loans, visit our Funding Your Education with Student Loans page.
Online certificate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 12-credit certificate
Full- and part-time students
$637
$1,911
$7,644
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students*
$470
$1,410
$5,640
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
*Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Career Outlook What can I do with an online public administration graduate certificate?
If your background is in the public sector or nonprofit work and you want to take on public administration duties, this certificate could be a great choice for you. And if you're looking to take your career in a new direction, the opportunities are almost never-ending.
While you'll be getting your public administration certificate, your title may not just be "public administrator." That's because public administration is interdisciplinary and collaborative at its core.
Occupations
Many jobs use public administration concepts to help an organization reach its goals. Some of these opportunities include:
Compliance officer
Examine operations of government agencies and businesses to evaluate their compliance with laws and regulations.
Political scientist
Help support an organization's political agenda by analyzing and current policies through surveys, economic data and election results.
Public relations and fundraising manager
Be the point person for a political campaign or nonprofit. Manage internal and external communications and cultivate donors.
Urban or regional planner
Revitalize communities to provide improved economic, environmental and social wellness. Work with city officials and government agencies to identify community needs and plans to solve them.
6%
Increase in roles for public relations and fundraising managers through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
$130,480
Median annual pay for public relations and fundraising managers as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a public administration certificate?
The public administration certificate is a graduate-level credential that helps you gain foundational knowledge and skills relevant to the public administration field. Some of the benefits of earning this certificate include:
- Adapting to changing roles and responsibilities
- Validating and developing an existing skill set
- Demonstrating professional interest and development
- Jumpstarting your master's degree
Want to earn your public administration certificate online? You can do that at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), an accredited, nonprofit university with over 25 years of experience in online education.
Through 4 graduate-level courses, you'll build a great foundation in public administration, public policy, strategic management and intergovernmental relations. It's an affordable way to build new skills while adding a valuable credential that looks great on your resume.
Even better? These courses can later be applied to SNHU's Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Public Administration program if you choose to earn a full master's degree.
What does a public administrator do?
Public administrators protect communities and improve their well-being by recognizing needs, analyzing laws and regulations, reviewing budget allocation and identifying solutions.
If you're interested in public administration, it's important to know your job title likely won't be "public administrator." That's because you'll put your public administration knowledge and skills to use in a more focused way. Some potential positions may include:
- Budget analyst
- City manager
- Community planner
- Program manager
- Strategy specialist
- Transportation planner
Public administrators work in all sorts of fields. Whether you have an interest in environmental protection, public health, civil rights or anything in between, you should be able to find a public administration job that aligns with the things you value.
What are the four pillars of public administration?
The 4 pillars of public administration are:
- Economy: Get the most out of taxpayer money.
- Efficiency: Do the most good as quickly as possible with the resources at hand.
- Effectiveness: Consider whether you are actually accomplishing your objective through your solution.
- Equity: Ensure projects have equitable outcomes for all populations.
What do these pillars mean in context? Imagine your community's residents have spoken up about the need for public restrooms at the city park. Portable bathrooms are brought up as an option, but what if we run it through the 4 pillars?
Portable bathrooms check the boxes as an economic solution. When it comes to efficiency, it would be a quick and easy project to complete, but is it really what the people wanted? You might be accomplishing what citizens asked for, but there's no running water for hand washing or filling water bottles. So maybe it's not as effective of a solution as possible. Finally, consider how equitable this solution is. Could a mother with 3 young children or a person in a wheelchair utilize this restroom? This solution doesn't pass the test.
Using this example, you can see how important employing the 4 pillars of public administration can be when finding solutions to a community's problems.
What are the 14 principles of public administration?
According to Henri Fayol, the 14 principles of administration are:
- Division of Work: Reduce duties and specialize employees' skills to increase efficiency and output.
- Authority: Derive authority formally from an official position, but also from personal authority.
- Discipline: Gain obedience through agreements and fair penalties.
- Unity of Command: Assign only one direct supervisor to an employee.
- Unity of Direction: Coordinate efforts by assigning one manager to teams with the same objectives.
- Subordination of Individual Interests to the General Interest: Use a utilitarian approach when it comes to the interests of all employees.
- Remuneration: Employ fair compensation across the organization for wellbeing and happiness of employees.
- Centralization: Decide how active employees should be in the decision-making process.
- Scalar Chain: Ensure employees are aware of their position in organizational hierarchy and that communications follow that chain of command.
- Order: Assign spaces for people and things to keep order.
- Equity: Treat staff equally in terms of respect, justice and kindness.
- Stability of Tenure of Personnel: Invest in employee development to reduce turnover and reduce inefficiencies.
- Initiative: Allow employees to ideate and carry out their own plans to increase satisfaction.
- Esprit de Corps: Promote a team spirit of unity across the organization.
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Sources & Citations
1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/public-relations-managers.htm (viewed Apr. 22, 2024). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.